The Beginning
Since its inception in 1974, Ballet Wichita (formerly Metropolitan Ballet of Wichita) has focused on providing performance and educational opportunities in dance. Featuring a talented troupe of regional dancers and professional guest artists representing major ballet companies from across North America, the Ballet has a proud tradition of entertaining audiences of all ages. The dedication of June Landrith, the company's founder, was essential to early successes in staging and performing elaborate productions. Her commitment helped secure Ballet Wichita's reputation as an accomplished performance and teaching company.
Since the early days, Ballet Wichita has grown from a small regional ballet company to a strong, semi-professional company which incorporates both local and outside professional guest artists. The current Artistic Director, Jill Landrith, returned to Wichita after dancing with professional companies in the United States and abroad. A true visionary and born teacher, under her leadership the company has forged strong partnerships in the community, including working alliances with the Wichita Public Schools, all the regional dance studios and Wichita State University.
Dedicated to excellence, the company is one of less than a handful of performing arts companies in the city of Wichita approved by the Wichita Board of Education for annual public school student attendance. The volunteer Board of Directors meets monthly and is actively involved in the operations and success of the company under the leadership of board president, Ann Garvey.
In 2005, the Ballet took a major step forward in hiring the first full-time executive director, Connie Bonfy. In 2007, Barbara Chamberlin was hired as executive director.
[ Back to top ]
Company By Laws
| January 2006 | June 2007 |
